Gibbs verdict - Need to give people help they deserve

There was no doubt that psychiatrist Lynn Gibbs killed her 16-year-old daughter Ciara in November 2006 and few people are likely to have been surprised at the jury’s verdict in finding her not guilty of the murder by reason of insanity.

Mr Justice Paul Carney indicated strongly to the jury that the psychiatric evidence was such that any other verdict would have amounted to suggesting that psychiatry was bunkum.

It took the jury little over 20 minutes before returning its verdict. The case was a massive personal tragedy for all concerned, especially the Gibbs family.

There was a time when society was inclined to lock up and forget about people with psychiatric problems. Mercifully we have a more enlightened attitude now.

Giant strides have been made with mediation. Much can now be done to allow people with psychiatric and psychological problems to live normal and full lives. But we should be acutely aware of the need to ensure people with such difficulties are monitored properly to ensure they take the necessary mediation.

People should be conscious of the need to provide help when it first becomes necessary, rather than waiting until it is too late.

It is an issue that touches many lives and we need to make sure that it is properly resourced and funded, so that people get the help they need.